ADHD and depression: How are they linked?

Australian comedian and actor Celeste Barber recently gave a candid interview with Australian Story (worth watching) about her ADHD diagnosis, highlighting both the lifelong struggles and strengths that come with it. While she refuses to call ADHD her “superpower,” she acknowledges the creativity, resilience, and drive that has helped shape her success. However, despite these strengths, ADHD can also take a toll on mental health. Many adults with ADHD experience persistent challenges that can lead to frustration, self-doubt, and, in some cases, depression.

As a psychologist in Amsterdam, I often work with adults navigating ADHD and its complexities. A common concern my clients bring up is the connection between ADHD and depression. Many struggle to distinguish whether their exhaustion, frustration, or sadness stems from ADHD, depression, or both. This article explores that link, but as always, professional guidance tailored to your unique situation is recommended.

Some common ways ADHD can contribute to depression:

1. Chronic frustration – Adults with ADHD often feel frustrated when they struggle with tasks that seem easy for others. This ongoing cycle can lead to self-doubt and hopelessness.
2. Negative feedback – Many people with ADHD have received years of criticism, whether in school, the workplace, or in personal relationships. This can contribute to low self-worth and depressive symptoms.
3. Emotional dysregulation – ADHD affects the ability to regulate emotions, making feelings of sadness or frustration more intense and challenging to manage.
4. Feelings of being overwhelmed and the risk of burnout – The mental exhaustion of keeping up with responsibilities, deadlines, and commitments can lead to stress and burnout, which can contribute to depression.
5. Rejection sensitivity – Many people with ADHD experience heightened sensitivity to criticism or rejection, which can result in deep emotional distress and depressive episodes.

Seeking the right support

If you recognize yourself in these experiences, know that you are not alone. Identifying whether you have ADHD and understanding how it affects your mood is an important first step. An ADHD test or ADHD screen is a good first step to decide whether further assessment and diagnosis are warranted and useful to you. As a psychologist in Amsterdam, I offer ADHD screening and diagnostic interviews, as well as ADHD therapy, and coaching in English for expats and locals alike.

Therapy and treatment options

The good news is that both ADHD and depression are highly treatable. With the right support, it’s possible to manage symptoms, improve emotional well-being, and build strategies to navigate daily life more effectively. Treatment might include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to develop coping skills and manage negative thought patterns.
• ADHD coaching to build routines and improve time management.
• Mindfulness and emotional regulation techniques to manage stress and impulsivity.
• Medication (in some cases) to support focus and mood regulation. If medication is something you are interested in, it will be prescribed to you by a doctor after consulting with them. 

Let’s work together

If you suspect you may have ADHD or are struggling with depression, I invite you to reach out. You can book a free 15-minute introductory call to discuss your concerns and see if therapy is the right fit for you. Sessions are available both online and in-person to accommodate your needs.

Take the first step towards understanding yourself better—help is available, and you don’t have to do it alone.